2024 Fall Education Outlook

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Althoughthenewschoolyearjust started,somehighschoolseniors maybelookingforwardtotossingtheir graduationcapscome2025.Amidtherushof collegeadmissionsandseniorprivileges, thesestudentsaren’ttakingasingledayof forgranted. Wecaughtupwithsomemembersofthe Classof2025toseewhatthey’remostexcitedaboutdoingduringtheirlastyearofhigh schoolandbeyond.Theydiscussedtheir favoriteclasses,activities,andmemories, andevenofferedsomewordsofadvicefor theirfellow(soon-to-be)graduates.>>

MEET THE SENIORS

Jaisaidhistimeinhighschoolhasbeenfilled withenrichingexperiencesacrossacademics,clubs, sports,globaltravels,andmore Photo by Fordham Preparatory School.
Photo by Wooster School.
MarisrecentlyreceivedaprestigiousSTEMscholarship fromTheAngelesT.ArredondoFoundationinStamford, whichshewillputtowardshercollegeeducation. Photo by Immaculate High School.
Sebastianisamemberofthedevelopmentteamat BrokenPiano,anindependentcompanythatmakes short,simple,andenjoyablegames,accordingtothe website. Photo by St. Joseph High School

Q

HOW DO YOU FEEL YOU’VE GROWN AS BOTH A STUDENT AND A PERSON FROM YOUR FIRST DAY OF

HIGH SCHOOL TO NOW?

Anand: Theschoolinstilledinmeadeep senseofcommunityandtheenduringvalue ofbrotherhood.Myperspectiveonlifehas alsoevolved,asInowviewmyactions throughthelensofhowtheycancontribute tothebroadercommunity.FordhamPrep’s rigorouscurriculumandseasonededucators havesharpenedmystudyhabitsandability totacklecomplexmaterial.WhileSTEMhas alwaysbeenastrengthofmine thefaculty encouragedmetobroadenmyhorizons.

Martinez: AsastudentI'vegrowninmycapacitytotake onchallengingcoursework,includingthreeAPclasses andtwocollege-levelcoursesthisyear.St.Joe’shasalso helpedmedefinewhoIam Thesepastthreeyearshave beenawhirlwind,butthroughitallI'velearnedabout myselfandwhoIwanttobe.ThroughthefriendshipsI’ve madehere,IcanhonestlysayI’vegrownsociallyand becomemuchmoreself-aware

Chirayil: Bytakingmoreadvanced courses,Ihavedevelopedastrong workethicandbecomebetterat managingmytime.Immaculate fostersanenvironmentfullofopportunitiesforstudentstogrowsocially andspirituallywiththehelpofits incrediblysupportivestaff,including extracurricularactivitiesandrigorousclasses.Theschool’sCertified NursingAssistant(CNA)program,for example,taughtmehowtotreat patientsinalocalnursinghomewith respectandkindness,givingthem eachthedignitytheydeserve.

Kriegel: Thechallengingcurriculum andsupportiveenvironmenthave encouragedmetoengageinclasses,askquestions,and providedaloveforlearning.OnapersonallevelI've becomemoreconfidentandresilient,fromlearningthe importanceofteamworkwhileplayingsoccertounderstandingtheimportanceoflisteningwhileplayingmusic, andlearningaboutempathyandkindnessthroughmy friendships.Ihavebeenabletousetheseskillsand dispositionstobecomeastudentleaderatWooster.

Pictured:JaiAnandhasbeeninvolvedintheMathClub,StudentGovernment,MinistryLeadershipTeam,andGlobalScholarsProgramat FordhamPreparatorySchool.PhotobyFordhamPreparatorySchool.

OntheCover:LauraltonHallHeadof SchoolBethCoynewalkswithagroupof prospectivestudentsduringarecent MorningsintheMansionsession.Photo byLauraltonHall.

AdvertisingInformation:(203)330-6238 301 Merritt 7, Floor 1, Norwalk, CT 06851 ©2024HearstConnecticutMediaGroup

MikeDeLuca

GR DE

ith a month of school now under their belts, some students may start to consider extra help or outside tutoring to excel with their stacked schedule of tests, quizzes, and assessments We spoke with local

administrators to see how they’re helping their students succeed, and recommend related resources available in the Fairfield County area.

SCHOOL RESOURCES

AtImmaculateHighSchoolinDanbury,studentscan visittheirteacherseverysingleafternoonafterschoolto receiveextrahelpeitheroneononeorinsmallgroups. Manyteachersalsocoordinateextrahelporclarification duringstudyhallsandflexdaysiftheirscheduleallows

Thisyear

Immaculate’scalendarincludesflexperiodsto acclimatethecurrentfreshmanclasstohighschool,and assistupperclassmenthroughthecollegeadmissions process.Theschool’speer-tutoringexperienceinvites honorstudentstoassistthoseinneedofsupplemental help,whilestudentswhoexcelatwritingcanofferfeedbacktotheirpeersintheWritingCenter

“We’veestablishedanacademicsettingwherestudents areencouragedtodotheirbest becauseourpeoplewant thebestforthem,”arepresentativefromImmaculatesaid. “Ourteachershaveanexceptionalpulseontheirstudents' masteryandlearningstyles,whichhelpssecureunderstandingpriortoimplementingsupport.”

Immaculate’sschoolcounselorsalsoprovideextrahelp bybridgingstudents,teachers,andparentstogetherto designaplanforthosewhomaybestrugglingwiththeir coursework.Comparedtothenationalstudent-counselor ratio,385:1,Immaculate’sstudent-counselorratiois95:1.

“Immaculateisacommunitythatwantseveryoneto succeedandcontinuetogrow,”therepresentativesaid.

TheStudentAcademicCenteratSt.JosephHighSchool inTrumbulloffersawiderangeofservicestomeetits students’diverselearningneeds.Theseincludesubject-specifictutoringsessions,APtestprep,organization andtimemanagementcoaching,andskillsworkshops.

St.Joe’salsoprovidesspecializedgroupsessionsthat addressvariousaspectsofacademicsuccess.These includehowtoorganizetheupcomingschoolweekand manageschedulesanddeadlinesinaneffectivemanner

St.JosephHighSchoolequipsstudentswiththeskills andknowledgetheyneedforfuturesuccessin collegeandbeyond.PhotobySt JosephHighSchool.

“We understand that some students prefer one-onone assistance while others thrive in group environments,” Principal Nancy DiBuono said. “To accommodate these preferences, our services include tutoring by National Honor Society students and faculty members across all subjects.”

Teachershostofficehourseverydayafterschoolfor morepersonalizedhelp,buttherearealsogroupstudy sessionsavailable.Inthelattersetting,studentscan collaborateandreceiveguidancefromtheirteachersas wellastheirpeers,AssistantPrincipalBrianGavinsaid.

“Ourapproachalsoencouragesregularreflectionand self-assessment,helpingstudentsbuildagrowthmindset andconfidentlytackleacademicchallenges,”headded.>>

motivate&engage

COMMUNITY RESOURCES

>> AllianceTutoringinGreenwichhelpsmotivateand engagehighschoolstudentswhoareoverwhelmedwith homework,stressedout,disorganized,orbehindintheir coursework.Itstutorscustomizethelearningexperience basedontheparticularstudent,andemploydifferentiatedinstruction,mindfulnesspractices,andexecutive skill-buildingtosupplementacademics.Formoreinformation,visitWWW.ALLIANCETUTORING.COM

FinishLineTutoringserviceshighschoolstudents acrossDanbury,Weston,andWilton.Itwasfoundedby JasonV.Howard,aConnecticutschoolteacher,whohas tutoredscoresofstudentsinreading,writing,social studies,history,psychology,drama,andmore Howard’s studentshaveincludedoverachievers,underachievers,as wellasthoseinthemiddleofthepack.Formoreinformation,visitWWW.FINISHLINETUTORING.COM

Students struggling in math, chemistry, or physics can get “Freducated” with the help of FredEbertTutoring With more than 50,000 hours of teaching experience across a 40-plus year career, Ebert offers students

multiple ways to understand the material. His individualized approach assesses their respective skill sets and problem-solving abilities to determine the best path to academic success. For more information, visit WWW. THETUTOROFWESTPORT.COM

PreciseTutoringinFairfieldoffersSAT/PSATprepand collegeessaycounselingtostudentsinninththrough12th grade.Itstutorsadministertheseservicesinasafeand secureenvironment,ensuringpersonalattentionispaidto eachandeverychild Thegoaloftheserviceistobuilda foundationforalifetimeloveoflearning,whichgives studentstheconfidenceandabilitytosucceed.Formore information,visitWWW.PRECISE-TUTORING.COM

TheTutoringClubofRidgefield services students of all backgrounds and academic abilities. Its team creates customized game plans for every individual child, and provides year-round tutoring in all high school subjects. The service also offers SAT/ACT test prep and guidance in navigating the college admissions process. For more information, visit WWW.TUTORINGCLUB.COM/RIDGEFIELDCT •

TheStudentAcademicCenteratSt.JosephHighSchoolin Trumbulloffersawiderangeofservicestomeetitsstudents’ diverselearningneeds.PhotobySt.JosephHighSchool.

School New

he start of a new school year presents the opportunity for students to experience many other new things, as well From courses and classmates to members of the faculty, there’s plenty to be excited about. Some schools in Connecticut are currently offering classes that their students have never taken before With this comes the addition of new faces to the staff directory. We spoke with local administrators in CT to see what’s on tap for the 2024-25 school year >>

LAURALTON HALL

>>WithasteadfastcommitmenttoMercy Educationvalues,LauraltonHallempowers youngwomentobecomeleaders,thinkers,and changemakers.ThisyeartheschoolreintroducedFrenchandChineseasworldlanguage optionsinsupportofthismission,stewarding responsibleleadershipinaglobalsociety.

LauraltonHallwelcomedfournewfaculty members,twonewstaffmembers,andfournew coachesatthestartofthe2024-25schoolyear

JuliaFreemanteachesGeometry,Algebra2, andPrecalculus;JamesRumberger,Charlene Yan,andBeverlyIsseleejoinedtheWorld LanguagesDepartment;andKaitlinIngerick

andTinaPappasjoinedtheAdvancement TeamasChiefPhilanthropyOfficerandDatabaseManager,respectively.

LeonardoGerminianiisthenewheadcoach ofLauraltonHall’ssoccerprogram,andBryce Makulanowleadstheschool’sfieldhockey team.Additionally,alumniEmilyMenendez(‘14) andRoryWoods('19)returnedthisyeartolead thebasketballandswimanddiveteams, respectively.

“Weareproudtointroduceanewstructurein ourStudentCouncilthisyear,”AlumnaeRelations&CommunicationsManagerNicole Benson-Ayisiadded.

Nicole Benson-Ayisi, Alumnae Relations & Communications Manager, Lauralton Hall

Benson-AyisinotedthatLauraltonHallwillalso resumeMorningsintheMansionthisfall.These specialized“shadowdays”giveprospective studentsandtheirparentsachancetomeetwith administrators,talkwithstudentambassadors sit inonaclass,andtourthecampus. VisitWWW.LAURALTONHALL.ORGfor moreinformation

EnglishTeacherJenniferAmoreassistsastudent withanassignment.PhotobyLauraltonHall.

exceptionalstudent experienceforevery student,everyyear

ST LUKE’S SCHOOL

St.Luke’sSchoolisofferingseveralnewclasses thisyear butthereweretwothatadministrators wereparticularlyexcitedabout.

Computing&AIEthics isanewcomputer scienceandengineeringcourseforseventh graders.Itispartoftheschool’semergingtechnologiescurriculum,whichensuresstudentsleave asskilled,conscientiouscreatorsandusersofthe technologiesshapingourworld.

The course provides an introduction to AI with an emphasis on ethical decision-making. Students learn technical concepts and consider their ethical implications, get comfortable with key terms, learn algorithms, prediction, and optimization, and practice using an ethical matrix. >>

>> RhetoricalTheory isanew Englishelectiveofferedexclusively toseniors.Itteachesstudentsthe powerofarrangement,antithesis andparallelism,andhowtheywork togethertocreatepunchy,memorableideas.Studentswillevaluate therhetoricofinfluentialspeakers fromthroughouthistory,thenapply whattheylearntocraftpersuasive essaysandspeeches,convincing eachotherofacertainpointofview.

“Theaboveclassesarebeing taughtbytwoofthe18incredible

newfacultyandstaffmembers joiningSt.Luke’sthisyear,”Assistant HeadofSchoolforAcademics ElizabethPerrysaid.

“ThefacultyandstaffatSt.Luke’s arecenteringourselvesaroundour commitmenttoanexceptional studentexperienceforeverystudent, everyyear,”Perrysaid.“Thiswillbe achievedthroughenhancedacademicguidanceandexpansionof SLS’sdistinctiveprogramming,includingEmergingTechnologies,Compass, andLeadingwithHumanity.”

Left:HanaGalijasevicisthenewMiddleSchoolComputerScience&EngineeringTeachingFellow andisteachingComputing&AIEthics.Right:ElijahSmithisSt Luke’snewHeadDebateCoach, andteachesRhetoricalTheory.PhotosbyStephenEmerick.

WOOSTER SCHOOL

Whenmostpeopleheartheterm“privateeducation,” amonotonemoviestarringelitist,carboncopycharactersplaysintheirheads WoosterSchool,however,is flippingthatscript

Whatyouwillfindonthecollege-likecampus, accordingtoAssociateHeadofSchoolChrisPannone,areclassroomsfilledwithcalmyetconfident kidspursuingtheirrespectivepassionswithpurpose, whatevertheymaybe

Pannoneoutlinedtwonewprogramsthatwere introducedatthestartofthe2024-25schoolyear

TheUpperMiddleSchoolProgramisdesignedfor seventh-andeighth-graders,andbuildsuponthe successofitsEarlyMiddleSchoolProgramforfifthandsixth-graders.Dismissingthenotionthatage aloneshouldstructuregradelevels,theseprograms createdynamicandflexiblegroupingsofstudents basedontheircurrentandgrowingskillsanddispositions.Theresultisablendedcohortthatgives

facultymoreflexibilitytomeeteachindividualchild wheretheyare.

ForhighschoolstudentsinterestedinSTEM-based topics,Woosterisnowofferingadvancedcoursework withinitsDeepLearningInitiative.Thecurriculum includesterminalcoursesthatmimiccollege-based seminars.

SinceDLIclassesarewidelybasedonstudents’ interests they’reinherentlyflexible,creative,and conversational.Butforstudentsseekingagreater senseofacademicstructure,theycanleavesomethingtobedesired.

“Whenkidsgotocollege,they’llneedtoknowhow totaketestsandhowtotakenotesduringalecture, sowedevelopedadvancedcourseworktorunalongsideDLIthisyear,”Pannoneexplained.“We’reencouragingkidstotakebothstylesofteachingsotheycan bestbepreparedfortherangeofexperiencesthey’ll haveincollege.” •

During the 2022-23 school year, 7 5 million students (ages 3-21) received special education and/or related services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, according to the National Center for Education Statistics The most common disability among students, at 32 percent, was specific learning differences Connecticut is home to a number of schools designed for students with specific learning differences We spoke with some administrators to see how they’re uniquely educating these unique learners, and, more importantly, setting them up for success.

Pictured:Keeler

holi-daze

While back-to-school season always feels like a fresh start, soon enough we’ll be celebrating the end of 2024 and ringing in a new year Between now and then is a laundry list of other holidays that fill our hearts with appreciation, where we’ll cherish spending time with our families and friends. Con-

necticut’s museums, research centers, and libraries invite you to spend the holidays learning about the holidays through a number of specially-curated programs and events This article provides a month-by-month breakdown of places you can go to get into the spirit of the season. >>

OCTOBER

>> KeelerTavernMuseum&HistoryCenter’s GhostsofRidgefield program includes a series of fun and spooky ghost tours, just in time for Halloween. Happening three nights only at the end of October, these family-friendly tours offer ghostly encounters and storytelling with a historic twist.

Traversethemuseum’ssiteandencounter theghostsofsomeofRidgefield’sformer residents,whowilleagerlysharetheirstories withguests.Theghostshauntingthegrounds thisyearwillincludewomenwholivedand workedonthesiteoverthecenturies,asportswriter,aWorldWarIIveteran,andaWildThing.

“ThisisthefifthyearforGhostsofRidgefield,

andeachyearithasbeenoneofourmostpopularprograms,”DirectorofStrategicStorytelling &GrantsKatieBurton,Ph.D.,said.

TheGhostsofRidgefieldwillspookup thehistoricsiteonFriday,Oct.25,Saturday,Oct. 26,andSunday,Oct.27from5-8p.m.Tours departevery10minuteswithamaximumof10 people,andareapproximatelyanhourinlength.

Toursoccuroutdoors rainorshine,sodress warmlyandwearcomfortableshoes.Tickets are$25foradultsand$10forchildren12and under.Topurchaseyours,visitWWW.KEELERTAVERNMUSEUM.ORG ifyoudare!

TheKeelerTavernMuseum&HistoryCenter islocatedat152MainSt.inRidgefield.

CONTINUE Holi-DazeON PAGE 16

NOVEMBER

Above:Thisyear’sDiwaliFestivalof LightseventatTheFerguson Librarywillincludeacandle-lightingceremony,singing,apresentationofclassicalandfolkdances fromdifferentregionsinIndia, pictured • Right:Thisyear’sDiwali FestivalofLightsevent atTheFergusonLibrarywillinclude acandle-lightingceremony, singing,andapresentationof classicalandfolkdancesfrom differentregionsinIndia,pictured. PhotosbyFergusonLibrary.

FALL OPEN HOUSES

The ConnecticutMuseumofCultureand History willhosta DíadeMuertosCommunity Celebration onSaturday,Nov.2,from11a.m.to 4p.m.DíadeMuertos whichtranslatestoDay oftheDead,isaMexicanholidaywherefamiliesgatherinthecemeterytoreunitewiththe soulsoftheirdeceasedlovedones.

Thefreeeventincludesartsactivitiesforall ages,mariachimusic,Mexicanfolkdance,food, andsomuchmore Artists,organizations,students andmembersofthepublicarewelcome tocreatetheirveryownofrendastobedisplayedfromNov.2-10.Spaceislimited,but interestedpersonscanapplyonlinebyOct.14

Anofrendaisanaltarthatincludesofferings forthedeparted,includingtheirfavoritefood anddrinks,mementos,personalbelongings, andphotographs.Ofrendasaretraditionally decoratedwithmarigoldflowers,copalincense, pandemuertobread,candles,papelpicado(a typeofMexicancraft),andsugarskulls.

TheConnecticutMuseumofCultureand HistoryislocatedatOneElizabethStreetin Hartford.Formoreinformation,visitWWW.

CONNECTICUTMUSEUM.ORG

The FergusonLibrary hosteditsfirst Diwali FestivalofLights inthefallof2011.TheIndian holidayoccursinlateOctoberorearlyNovember,andeachdayofthefive-day-longfestival ismarkedbyadifferenttradition.

“The purpose of hosting Diwali, or any cultural celebration, is to promote cultural diversity and introduce residents to different communities and their traditions,” ELL, Citizenship & Cultural Programs Manager Yelena Klompus said “We welcome all residents to embrace and celebrate their heritage, as we truly believe we can learn from our neighbors here in Stamford.”

Thelibrarywillbedecoratedwithrich textiles,lights,andrangolipatterns duringDiwali.Thisyear’seventwillincludeacandle-lightingceremony,singing,apresentationofclassicalandfolk dancesfromdifferentregionsinIndia, andconcludewithafoodtasting. >>

COURAGE& CONFIDENCE

UpperSchool (Grades9–12)—Oct.24at5:30p.m

AllSchool (Kindergarten–Grade12)—Nov.2 at 9:00 a.m.

BaratCenter (3–5 year oldboys &girls)—Nov.8 at 9:30 a.m.

ADMISSIONTOURDAYS October9,November13, December 11,January 15 9:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m.

TheMashantucket PequotMuseum& ResearchCenter aimstoprovide accurateinformation aboutThanksgiving basedondecades ofin-depthresearch. Photoby Mashantucket PequotMuseum& ResearchCenter.

>>Whiletheexactdateoftheeventhasyetto bedetermined,Klompusdirectedinterested personstokeepaneyeonthelibrary’swebsite.

“Thecelebrationofimportantmultinational holidaysallowsthelibrarytohonordiverse communities appreciaterichcultureand customs,andintroducethewiderStamford populationtothesevibranttraditions,”sheadded.“ThiscelebrationallowspeoplefromIndiato cometogetherandproudlypresenttheircustomsandtraditions butalsoallowsthosewho areunfamiliarwiththecelebrationtolearn.”

TheFergusonLibraryislocatedat1Public LibraryPlazainStamford.Formoreinformation, visitWWW.FERGUSONLIBRARY.ORG

TheMashantucketPequotMuseum&ResearchCenteraimstoprovideaccurateinformationaboutThanksgiving basedondecades ofin-depthresearch.

“Ourinitiativesprovidethetruthabout Thanksgivingratherthanfalsehistoriesand propaganda,whileatthesametimeencouragingpatronstogathermorewithfamilyand friendstoshareameal,”Communications DirectorLoriA. Pottersaid.

Onesuchinitiativeis “Colonialism101,”whichdefines,identifies,anddebunks colonizationinourday-todaylifefromanindigenous perspective.Themuseumwill hostaTaqôkAutumnFeastin observanceofNativeAmericanHeritageMonthonSaturday,Nov.16.Theeventwill featuretraditionalPequot dishesandapresentationon

thetruthofThanksgivingand itsorigins.

Themuseum’stemporary gallerycurrentlyfeatures “Kunâhneepamuhshâtunônak: OurMoons.”Thisexhibit explainstheimportanceof the13fullmoonsinour traditionalcalendar,aswell asharvestcelebrations,or thanksgivings.

“We do enjoy any opportunity to have conversations and share perspectives, so we encourage questions from the general public,” Potter added. “However, we are not anti-Thanksgiving. After all, who doesn’t like to get together with loved ones and share space while eating generational recipes and watching a little football?

“Colonialism101” defines,identifies, anddebunks colonizationinour day-to-daylife fromanindigenous perspective Photo byMashantucket PequotMuseum& ResearchCenter.

TheMashantucketPequotMuseum&ResearchCenterislocatedat110PequotTrailin Mashantucket.Formoreinformation,visit WWW.PEQUOTMUSEUM.ORG

DECEMBER

Forthefinalactof2024,peoplealloverthe worldwillcelebrateChristmas (Dec 25),Hanukkah(Dec.25-Jan.2,2025),andKwanzaa (Dec.26-Jan1.,2025)withtree,menorah,or kinaralightingcelebrations.Visityourtown’s websiteinthecomingweekstofindoutabout relatedeventsinyourarea. •

Above:EagleHillSchoolhasserved childrenwithlanguage-basedlearning differencessince1975.• Below:EagleHill Schoolprovidesindividualizedprograms thatmeetthespecificneedsofeach studentbasedontheiruniquelearning profile.PhotosbyEagleHillSchool.

WhitbyKids AreFuture-Ready. Your children will facea worldthatisverydifferentfromtoday.

At Whitby, we meet this challengehead-on by creating an environmentdesigned to develop students who areinnately curious,and have the knowledge and confidence to find their wayinthe world.

Come join us to learn howyour child canbecome future-ready

Fall Admission Events

EarlyChildhood Exploration: October 2–9:30 AM

AllSchool Open House: October27– 11:00 AM Virtual AllSchool Open House: November 13 –9:30 AM

EAGLE HILL SCHOOL

EagleHillSchoolhasservedchildrenwithlanguagebasedlearningdifferencessince1975.Theseinclude dyslexia,dysgraphia,auditoryprocessingdisorder, ADHD,andmore.Admittedstudentsreceivesubstantial academicsupportinreading,writing,math,and attentionmanagement.

EagleHillprovidesindividualizedprogramsthatmeet thespecificneedsofeachstudentbasedontheir uniquelearningprofile.Teachershavethefreedomand flexibilitytodevelopprogramsusingarangeoftechniquesthankstotheschool’slowstudent-to-teacher ratio(7-1)

“Eagle Hill School defines itself by its ‘Whole Child’ approach,” Director of Marketing & Communications Brad Serton said. “This means that not only is there much attention given to supporting students’ learning differences, but students are also given the opportunity to participate in interscholastic athletics, art, music, dance, coding, and a broad range of after-school activities.”

Suchopportunitiesincludeachancetoserveon theStudentCouncil,orperformactsofservice forthegreaterGreenwichcommunity.Sertonsaid theseopportunities...

We’ve made abreakthroughfor thefield of education,witha new,research-backedapproach to empowering gifted& 2e kids with complex learning,social-emotional and/or medical profiles Come seehow we’reredefining what’s possiblefor achild and forK-12 education as awhole,and what this might mean foryourchild.

TYPES OF LEARNING DIFFERENCES

ADHD Shortforattention-deficit/ hyperactivitydisorder, ADHDisadevelopmental disorderthataffectsa person'sbehavior.Symptoms includeinattention, hyperactivity,andimpulsivity

AuditoryProcessingDisorder

Aneurodevelopmentalconditionthat makesitdifficultforpeopletounderstand soundsaroundthem.

AutismSpectrumDisorder

Aneurologicalanddevelopmental disorderthataffectshowpeople interactwithothers,communicate, learn,andbehave

Dyscalculia

Alearningdisorderthataffectsa person'sabilitytounderstandnumberbasedinformationandmath.

Dysgraphia

Aneurologicalconditioninwhich someonehasdifficultyturningtheir thoughtsintowrittenlanguage.

Dyslexia

Alearningdisabilitythatmakes itdifficulttoreadandwrite duetodifferencesinhowthe brainprocesseslanguage.

SocialCommunicationDisorder

Aneurodevelopmentaldisorderthat affectsaperson'sabilitytouse verbalandnonverbalcommunication insocialsettings. and

Since 1869, Stoneleigh-Burnham School has prepared students to navigate the world forward.

Located centrally between Boston and NYC, students can develop and hone their skills in the classroom, on the field, or in the greater community.

Thesetransformativelearningexperiencesoccur inatraditionalcountrydayschoolsetting,Serton added.EagleHill’scampusencompassesmultiple fields,separatebuildingsforathleticsandartand music,andasmallstreamthatteachersuseto facilitatescienceexperiments.Theinstitutionalso offersafive-dayboardingexperienceforUpper Schoolstudents.

EagleHillSchoolislocatedat45GlenvilleRoad inGreenwich.Formoreinformation,call(203) 622-9240orvisitWWW.EAGLEHILLSCHOOL.ORG

FRANKLIN ACADEMY

As the premiere boarding school for neurodivergent learners, Franklin Academy looks beyond diagnostics and instead recognizes their students’ inherent strengths Members of the faculty help nurture these strengths by working with students on their executive functioning and social-emotional skills.

Throughitsactiveacademicandresidentiallife program,studentsreceiveexplicitinstructionto prepareforcollegeandbeyond.Studentsalsoget thechancetoparticipateinvarsityathletics, eveningandweekendexcursions,andleadership opportunities.

“A504planisdevelopedforeachstudentto identifytheaccommodationsandmodifications they’llreceiveaspartofourprogram,whichis reviewedannuallyandonanindividualbasis,” AssistantDirectorofAdmissions&CommunicationsSarahRausch-Dudzicsaid.>>

Sarah Rausch-Dudzic, Assistant Director of Admissions & Communications Franklin Academy

>>AtFranklin,studentsarepartofateamledbyan AssociateDeanofAcademicAffairs(whooversees theireducationalprogramming)andanAssociate DeanofStudents(whooverseestheirsocialprogramming).Eachteamincludesdedicatedfaculty thatteachskill-basedcurriculumsdifferentiated byage,developmentallevel,andneed.

The school also implements a transitional model to support post-secondary preparation. Its senior year program, the Franklin Learning Institute, provides students immersive opportunities to practice college skills with adult support and intervention.

“Our families receive active communication from various departments and educational opportunities to enhance their understanding on neurodiversity, post-secondary planning, and ways to support adolescent skill development,” Rausch-Dudzicsaid.

FranklinAcademyislocatedat140RiverRoadin EastHaddam Formoreinformation,call(860) 873-2700orvisitWWW.FA-CT.ORG • Top:Throughitsactiveacademicandresidentiallifeprogram,FranklinAcademystudentsreceiveexplicitinstructiontoprepareforcollegeand

Q DO YOU HAVE ANY FAVORITE CLASSES OR ACTIVITIES?

Anand: Some of my standout classes include AP Calculus, Latin 2 Honors, AP Computer Science, and AP English Language. These courses left a lasting impression because the teachers made challenging material engaging and accessible. As for activities, running on the cross country and track teams all four years has been a highlight of my high school experience The camaraderie during competitions and the friendships forged afterward has been incredibly rewarding.

Chirayil: Myvolleyballcoach andteammates,whoarenow someofmyclosestfriends,have supported,taught,andpushed metobecomethebestversion ofmyself Myfavoriteclasshas beenAnatomyandPhysiology Honors asitreallyhelpedme discovermypassionforhealth care.Learningaboutthehuman bodyandhavingateacherwho wasalwayswillingtomeetwith mewasinstrumentalingetting metowhereIamtoday

Martinez: FromDroneEngineeringtobeingpresidentof theGameDevelopmentClub,I'veparticipatedinmany interestingclassesandactivitiesatSt.Joe’s.Myabsolute favoriteisbeingapartofourcoedbowlingteam It amazesmehowanindependentsportlikebowlingcan fostersuchasenseofcommunity.Theteambroughtme outofmyshellandgavemetheconfidencetomake newfriends.

Kriegel: IloveWooster’ssciencecourses becausethey’realwayssoengagingand hands-on,butIalsolovethehistoryclasses becausewecandivedeepintodiscussions andprojects.BeinginvolvedinYearbookhas beenahighlightofmyhighschoolcareer, andIalsolovebeingapartofSocialImpact andgivingbacktothecommunity.Additionally,theteamworkandfuntimesthatcome fromplayingsportsmakeitsuchavaluable partoftheday.

Q WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS POST-GRADUATION?

Chirayil: Aftergraduation,Iplantoattend collegeandmajorinhealthorbiological sciences.Immaculatehasmanysignature programs,suchasCNA,whichhaveenabled metobetaughtbyaregisterednurse,trainin ahospitallabonsiteatschool,andgetmy requiredclinicalhoursatalocalhealthcare facility.Thisexperienceledmetovolunteerat RegionalHospiceinDanburyandsolidified mydesiretostudymedicine.>>

Top:AlexandraKriegelposedwithherhistoryteacher,CorrieHerrmann,afterreceivingtheNealAdamsBookPrizeHistoryAward.PhotobyWooster School.• Bottom:ImmaculateHighSchoolseniorsMarisChirayil(left),KristinaAsmani(middle),andKeiraLicursi(right)recentlyreceived prestigiousSTEMscholarshipsfromTheAngelesT.ArredondoFoundation PhotobyImmaculateHighSchool.

>> Kriegel: Aftergraduatinghighschool Iplantoserve mycountryandgetacivilandenvironmentalengineeringdegree.AsIlookahead,I’mexcitedtotakewhatI’ve learnedhereintothenextchapterofmylife.Ihopeto inspireotherstoembracechallengesandseekoutexperiences justasIhaveatWooster

Martinez: After graduation, I plan on beginning a career as a game designer. Whether I go the traditional route of college or build my own independent game studio from the ground up, I know I can do it I've been determined for the past four years to follow my passion, and that determination has only been bol-

stered by the incredible teachers and staff at St. Joe’s who have encouraged me to believe in my dreams.

Anand: Iamdeeplyinterestedintheintersectionof appliedmathematicsandmedicaloncology,particularly inthefieldofradiology.Lookingahead,Iplantofocuson refiningAIalgorithmstoenhancetheaccuracyoftumor-detectionmodels.Thepotentialimpactofthis researchisenormous itcouldleadtoearlierandmore precisediagnoses,possiblyevensavinglives.Contributingtosuchadvancements,bothlocallyandglobally,isa goalthatdrivesmeforward.

Q COULD YOU SHARE SOME WORDS OF ADVICE FOR YOUR FELLOW GRADUATING SENIORS?

Anand: Take time to relax and trust that wherever life takes you you will go on to do incredible things. Stay involved in activities that fuel your passions, both in school and within your local communities. Whatever your path, always remember your roots and the people who supported you along the way

Chirayil:Beboldandconfidentinthe decisionsyoumake;takerisksandtrynew things.Aftergraduatinghighschool,seek newopportunitiesanddon’tbeafraidtoask forsupport.Thisishowyoudiscoveryour talentsandpassions,ultimatelybecoming thebestversionofyourself

Kriegel: Make memories and stay organized. Senior year is filled with so many exciting events and activities and it's such a great time to be with friends and family to create memories I also find staying organized to be super important because senior year comes with lots of deadlines, and staying organized can set you up for success.

Martinez: Planeverything.Keepaplanner,useacalendar, sendyourselfemails,orkeepstickynotes.Whateveryoudo, plan.Therearetimeswheneverythingseemsliketoomuch, andI'velearnedthattheonlywayoutofitistoplan. •

Pictured:SebastianMartinezisthepresidentoftheGameDevelopmentClubatSt.JosephHighSchoolinTrumbull.Photoby:St.JosephHighSchool.

Mitchell College is aplace of radicalpossibilities,where youcan uncover your unique powerand studywhatis most importanttoyou:yourself. With aflexible, abilities-basedcurriculum, apeacefulwaterfrontcampus, and social andlearningsupportstailoredtoeachstudent’s unique needs, Mitchell weaves students in—wedon’t weed students out.

Career-Focused Majors with Built-in Experiential Learning Acceleratedand Online Course Options Conference-Winning DIII Athletics Support forNeurodivergentLearners—before,during, andafter college

Test PreparationCourse

October5,2024

Fall Open House

October20, 2024

1:00pm-3:00pm

High School PlacementTest

October26, 2024 or November 9, 2024

Priority ApplicationDeadline

November 13,2024

Winter Open House

December 11,2024

6:30pm-8:00pm

Family Tours

Availablebyappointment

What will your path look likefromhereto higher education? Howwillyou make the most of your high school years? What will youdiscoverabout yourself,your passions,yourpotential?Who will you impact alongthe way?

At St.JosephHighSchool,wehelp youngmen andwomen make themostof theirhighschool experience.That’swhy we sayour studentsare On AMission ForMore.Morechallenges.More celebrations.Moreunique experiences. More opportunitiestoserve their community.

VisitSt. Joes and discover your mission formore!

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